4.02 avg rating — 419 ratings

"Red is the perfect picture book for children! I’ll list the reasons why…
*A great Concept builder about color in our world
*Language development – adjectives defining the word red, with illustrations
*Comprehensive skills and sequencing of events - the story about a young fox that wanders away from the family. How to get this wild creature back to where it belongs
*Emotional, physicals, social skills – the lone baby fox exemplifies curiosity and wonder, worry, sadness, pain, hunger, anger, love and joy, contentment
*Love, appreciation, and understanding of nature and wildlife
A great book to address any of those features with students! Holes in each page help the child take the time to think about what is happening from page to page! Tested and proven to be great with a four-year old granddaughter! "

4.24 avg rating — 741 ratings

"Here is a biography for children about a young Black girl who grew up in the early 1900s in Florida to a sharecropper and Baptist preacher. Growing up, she loved to gather stories, share them with others, and create her own. But the odds were against her in this time in history. Her mama always told her to Jump at the Sun! Though others doubted her future as a writer/ storyteller, she forever lived by mom's motto. What a wonderful role model today, if she only knew! What an inspirational hero for children of any color, faith, or walk in life.

The illustrations are colorful, positive, and powerful. The story is told in a wonderful deep Southern style. Together, text and illustrations have a magical, mystical tone that will draw readers in.

This is a great biography to read to children in grades 1 – 4. It is a wonderful steppingstone to searching for those old legends, fables, and stories originating in the Deep South, Caribbean, and Jamaica.

Caldecott winner? Very well could be!"

4.51 avg rating — 5,769 ratings

"This is a story suggests the importance of sharing one’s family history with its young and cherishing time to build new memories as a family. Life, after all, combines happy times, sad times, and learning to remember, appreciate, and celebrate these times.

The illustrator focuses on the style of life in rural America for an Asian family but uses the art technique of Chinese painting to give a look of the 70s. The dreams of China, in this story, have a washed muted look. It blends the life of today for the family and a long hard look at yesteryear for the family in China to create a beautiful, appreciative story.
"

4.55 avg rating — 955 ratings

"This Very Tree is a great story about 9/11, written for children, in a way that explains the horrific events of that day in a somewhat gentle manner and shows a global effort to save, reimagine, and rebuild its community. This story is told through the eyes of a tree that was on the plaza during 9/11. The tree was badly damaged but it too survived through a community effort. The tree is very symbolic of this event and our recovery efforts.

The illustrations feature text font used on the cornerstone of the One World Trade Center. Throughout the book, the illustrations feature sketching, penciling in the manner of hatching and cross hatching to add shadow and depth. These lines seem symbolic of architectural rebuilding and strength in material. These sketched illustrations seems to represent the resilience of a people and its community. The copyright note in the book says five different styles of erasers are used throughout the illustrations. This seems to represent the power of light and hope finding its way into the aftermath of 9/11.

Great book! Potential Caldecott Award!"

4.32 avg rating — 713 ratings

"We Wait for the Sun is a beautiful story about a child and her grandmother waking in the wee hours before sunlight to pick berries. The story elicits memories for me, fishing in a boat before sunrise with my grandfather. The snacks that came along were great, but my pole generally scared the fish away or maybe it was my ten-year-old expertise!

This is a great sensory story, as the girl feels the night’s dew on her cheeks and smells the damp earth; the beating wings of the birds show the blackberry site; she tastes the delicious sweetness of the berries; and she sees the change of colors as daylight approaches. These are just a few examples.

The author has another story to tell though, as well. We Wait for the Sun brings light to the efforts of an oppressed people to achieve equality. Six pages of the book are dedicated to this movement. The grandmother's lessons passed along encourage readers to be strong, fierce and supporters of good in the world. An easy to understand timeline and bibliography concludes this book.

The shades of blue, purple, lavender, and black do beautiful justice to the hour before dawn in this story. At day break, the shades change to pink, red, orange, gold, and yellow. These illustrations are beautiful!

Children, older students, and adults can read and understand this story on many levels, depending on their age."

4.47 avg rating — 3,432 ratings

"Adorable book! It is a twisty turny story - great for storytelling! Filled with action, suspense, and relief! This is a tender story about a little bird, ready to fly. Will she succeed? Learn about setting goals and feeling success! Also, begin to learn about kingfisher birds and other creatures in nature!

The illustrations are captivating! And turning the book is quite a unique way to tell this heart-warming story!

Receiving praise for a job-well done from the parent is ultimate success in this story!"

4.47 avg rating — 2,251 ratings

"When the pandemic began, this author/illustrator started jotting down details about how the world was changing, and eventually she decided to turn these notes into a documentation of the events in the form of a children’s picture book. The paintings and descriptions throughout the story are based on real people and real happenings. One beautiful two-page picture spread shows how we all look different (our faces and nationalities), yet the next two-page spread shows how we are the same on the inside, with potential to have and share love. To end the story, there is a four-page open spread that takes a positive look at how our lives have progressed through the pandemic, both inside and outside of our homes.

After the first reading of the story, it works to go back through the book and treat it as a wordless book. The pictures on every page have so much to say about how the coronavirus has affected our lives in 2020. A younger child will look at the story and see it as a picture book of people doing things inside and outside of the home. It is fun to follow the neighborhood black cat through the story. First graders and older can appreciate the story as a look at the pandemic and how it changed everything!
"

4.03 avg rating — 271 ratings

" A Collector of ABC picture books will indeed want this book. There is so much to learn about culture and diversity in this pictural word dictionary! The illustrations are amazing. The fonts are varied and artistic.

I would urge families to take a two -page spread a week and really explore what the words and illustrations symbolize. Maybe, a food item on the page could be a main feature of the family's meal.

As far as ABC books go, bravo! This one is a stellar achievement!"

4.42 avg rating — 316 ratings

"Such a tremendous book - a biography about a lady that did timeless things to make this world a better place. Corita Kent was an artist, activist, nun, educator and peace lover. Her life continues to influence our world.

This story and its illustrations go hand-in-hand to inspire readers to do their part in making this world a better place. The book would be an assest to any school-age program. The artwork is bright and colorful, making bold statements about our world. The middle spread shows just what an innovative art teacher she was.

The back of the book is filled with additional facts about Corita Kent. I want to learn more about her life. I am inspired by her!"

4.27 avg rating — 503 ratings

"What a great book for young readers to learn about hurricanes, community service and rebuilding, and how to build a dock!

The pictures are big and real-to-life. They depict a hurricane and it's devastation in a dramatic way for children to understand.

How clever to use the end pages to illustrate how a hurricane works (in the front of the book) and how to build a dock (in the back of rhe book).
"

4.19 avg rating — 1,881 ratings

"This book speaks to readers, asking them to put phones and devices aside. Step outside and really look at the world for a day. Ponder and question how things work. Wonder Walkers is an imaginative way at examining our Earth. Two children spend a day questioning the landscapes where they live. Archer uses collages to design her pages. She has drawers filled with all kinds of patterns to pull from. She uses stamps she has created from intertubes, string, rubber bands, and more. Archer designed a house from paper in order to get proper perspective for the houses in her final scene at nightfall. Worthy of Caldecott? Yes! Why, Archer's illustrations speak as a gentle reminder for us to take care of our world and be stewards of the land. Archer wants her pictures to be simple and readable in order to keep her books interesting. "

4.48 avg rating — 3,468 ratings

"On the subway ride to see his Mama at the incarceration center, a little boy sits by his sister and draws made-up stories about the people he sees around him. As he departs the train, he sees some of these same faces and he begins to think he could have drawn their stories differently. His original drawings are a little lonely and sad. He wonders what those people might think his stories would be - as he feels his life is a happy one. And thus, he re-imagines their stories in a brighter light. When he arrives to see his Mama, he has a picture drawn for her and it couldn’t be any more cheerful!

This book could be used to encourage children to keep a journal and draw their feelings, tell their stories, and create illustrations of life around them. What a great book for 2nd and 3rd graders. Caldecott potential? Yes! This book has illustrations that will likely encourage children to illustrate! "

4.49 avg rating — 1,972 ratings

"Wishes is a book of 75 words. It is a great opener to many units within the social sciences and history areas of study. Readers may want to find more true stories of this nature that have occurred during the history of time.

The colors in the illustrations of this book are subdued to represent escapes from persecution and disasters from a homeland. The shades and soft tones indicate leaving in the later hours of the day, at a hushed, silent time in the cool of the evening light. While the hot, sultry sun blaring down on a boat of refugees is also given dark tones.
This book is best when read with others. It is a book that will lead to so many questions and discussions. It is a great starting point to looking at the effects of war and natural devastation on people, emigration and immigration, and refugees hoping for a better life. This is a book of hope, despair, movement toward a better life, helping others, and new beginnings.
"

4.09 avg rating — 1,164 ratings

"In this beautiful story, Zonia is a little girl that lives and loves her world in the Amazon Rainforest. When she senses danger, she tells her mom the rain forest needs help. Mama tells her to answer this call. One final look at the little girl shows a real look of determination to do her part in saving the rainforest, and a challenge to all of us is issued, as well. There are numerous resources about the rain forest in the back of the book. This is a great book to add to a study of the rainforest and its global implications.

In the acknowledgments at the back of the book, credit is given to the women artisans of Chazuta, Peru, who made the natural paper used in the illustrations of this book. The paper is from banana bark. The illustrations are muted and seem to accentuate the true colors of the rain forest and its beauty.
"

3.68 avg rating — 399 ratings

"The Museum of Everything looks at things on this earth and beyond through the minds of a child. The story begins, “When the world gets too bug and too loud and too busy, I like to look at little pieces of it, one at a time.” The author ends the story by saying these little pieces all fit together, like the biggest puzzle ever or like notes to a song or like a museum of everything.

This book is a visual exploration of what makes our world special. The author collects, compares, and questions what is there to see, if we will slow down and look. The author / illustrator used cut and / or folded paper, sand, stones, twigs, wood, moss, wool, foamcore board, fabric, embroidery thread, modeling clay, lights, sculptures, and many other odds and ends to illustrate this story.

Using one’s imagination is healthy. Take a macro look at the world and you will be amazed at what is there for your eyes and mind to enjoy. It’s like having your own museum of everything!"

3.58 avg rating — 569 ratings

"The old Boat encourages us all to clean up our waterways, streams, and ponds.

A storm can cause damage, but how often does a storm bring out the best in humanity to make a better place in our world."

4.57 avg rating — 898 ratings

"The survivor tree that survived the 9/11 attack was a Callery Pear tree. This book tells its remarkable story! Survivor Tree is a miracle tree that is symbolic of hope, strength, and resiliency. Seeds from this majestic tree have been shared in communities throughout the New York City area since 2013 to grow more trees of its nature.

The art work is done in muted tones of every color on the color wheel. Yet on the pages of the 9/11 disaster, there is a glimpse of bright color, maybe suggesting hope, resiliency, and regrowth.

In the back of the book, there is a great documentary on the Survivor Tree, as well as an informative author’s and artist’s note.

Readers might like to compare the two Survivor Tree picture books from this year's crop of good literature for children. Both books are incredible. Anytime a book about the resiliency of trees is written, it is outstanding! I believe it is easy to compare oneself to a tree with its roots going deep, the trunk growing taller and stronger over time, and the branches reaching out! Or look at a family tree - just look in baby books or family Bibles. Books about trees are special!"

4.16 avg rating — 670 ratings

"Ben Shahn - a child with a dream. He lived from 1898 - 1969.
His family immigrated to America in early 1900s. He painted stories that were able to bring justice to all people of all status, culture, and culture. He painted for President Roosevelt in 1937.
This is an excellent book to kick off so many units of study and thought, grades 4th and up. The illustrations are worthy of a historical study, as well. Ben Shahn's illustrations had a big influence of Evan Turk's work in this book.

Together, author, Cynthia Levinson, and illustrator, Evan Turk, bring to life the dreams of Ben Shahn, artist for the people. Fact is, the same stories of justice for Americans are still in the news. Some budding artist that might read this book could be inspired to continue in Ben Shahn's footsteps.
"

3.78 avg rating — 1,290 ratings

"Perfect book to win The Caldecott Gold Medal!!! An inside cat has many windows in a house that he can see the world happening outside! This is a curious cat, indeed! He seems to be satisfied with what he sees, until one day...

The artwork takes the cake!
Art revealed through the eyes of an inside cat, until....
Looking through the cat's perspective will have readers laughing!

This book will encourage children to imagine, write, and illustrate. The book just begins as it ends..."

3.80 avg rating — 212 ratings

" Here’s a great troll story! It takes me back to my childhood when I would read the Three Billy Goats Gruff over and over again! To this day, I have my old storybook that has the Three Billy Goats and other great tales!

Enters a new story about a troll that will surely delight all ages, New in Town. Mr. Mortimer Gulch (a real Ebenezer Scrooge) lives in a quaint little village atop a tiny island that is separated from the mainland by a chasm. The problem is that the bridge, crossing this ravine, is continually failing, due to termites(?). Sure! Fear not; Mr. Gulch can fix it with sizeable donations from the villagers. This would be bridge repair #272. He takes jewels, money, and any prized possession the villagers can muster. Until, one day a small travelling clock repairman comes to town. He hopes to fix the Clock Tower atop the village. Can he make life better for these villagers? Mr. Gulch sincerely hopes not.

The illustrations are packed with humor. The rich colors grab readers attention. And even the curly font telling this funny story will captivate readers. A book that readers will enjoy time and time again! A great gift idea: this book + an inventive bridge making kit for kids "

3.98 avg rating — 1,116 ratings

"This story is a tribute to trees! The book covers every part of a tree from its roots to its tip-top crown that reaches upward to sun and sky. Readers will learn about seeds, flowers, fruit, branches, water and mud. The rewards of a healthy tree make birds, bees, worms, squirrels, fish, children, and many other forms of life happy!

The shape of the book is tall like a tree! The unique pictures are done in shades of bright pink, browns and gold, and touches of smoky blue and black. The pictures are bright, smudgy and fading in spots, and then speckled and splotchy on other pages. The illustrations support the simple poetic text perfectly! Once read to a child, the reader will want to return to this book again and again. The pictures provide wonderful detail – almost hidden on the pages. Look for the apple cores and the worm!!! It is a happy story about nature, children, feeling, and family.

Three cheers for the power of trees both in real nature and in the symbolism within each of us.
Caldecott worthy – indeed!!!
"

4.46 avg rating — 1,017 ratings

"This picture book is a tribute to Native cultures regarding a mother carrying child and pondering what gifts to prepare for her child's birth, and why? As the mother-to-be waits with patience and love, she gathers a medicine bundle to gift the baby:
White eagle plume – to be a reminder of beauty in nature
Cedar and sage – to keep a spirit strong
A star blanket – to hold a baby close
Stone – to remind us that the Land carries stories, and so do you

After the baby is born, the story references back to each gift, providing a circular connection and sense of togetherness. This book honors motherhood, the family, and community belonging.

The pages are muted tones of purple, blue, green, and white. Each page (mostly double-spreads) features swirls and stars around the mother / child. The illustrator hopes to visualize a sense of magic and spirit in a “swooshing” manner!

The book is best shared and discussed with a child, ages 4-8. It is illustrated by the Native artist who won the prestigious Caldecott Medal in 2021 (for "We Are Water Protectors"). Expect future honors for this book as well!!!"

4.49 avg rating — 4,240 ratings

"Floyd Cooper is the illustrator. His work comes truly from the heart, as he grew up in this area and has heard this story from his grandfather living there in the 20s.

The story talks about a horrible massacre that took place in 1921 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The black residents were living a good, fair, successful life and an incident occurred that caused whites to take revenge on the whole black community.

This is an eye-opener in Black American history. But it is a sad story. Hopefully, stories like this will, somehow, strengthen love, hope, and humility in the minds and hearts of all Americans. The illustrations are done with oil paint and a technique called erasure, so that the images have a muted look of past, historical events. A sad photo is on the back end pages of the destroyed Black community in Tulsa .
"

4.47 avg rating — 1,313 ratings

"Nicky & Vera - This Holocaust story is told in a gentle way and the illustrations are peaceful and realistic of the time periods 1940s – 1980s about WWII. The pictures are so thought provoking - such a pictorial encyclopedia about the Holocaust! A winner!!! "

3.82 avg rating — 525 ratings

"StollerCoaster tells the story of a little girl and her dad that need to get out of the house. He is Daddy sitting and the two have exhausted every toy, game, and activity in the house, better known as the daily disaster. It is time to go for a walk -- not an ordinary walk but a walk at roller coaster speed!

Spanish words are gently woven into this story on billboards and signs across the city as the child and dad head out on their journey. The colors and cartoons are a delight in full double-page spreads as they whiz on through the city, up and down in and out!

Colors and actions best describe this story. Speed is also a factor in this stroller coaster event. Dad is almost magical in his handling of the stroller. Of course, his daughter is strapped in tight and advised to keep hands and feet inside at all times. Safety rules come first as they head out! But naturally, the story winds down, back at home, and it is time to….zzz~ "

4.20 avg rating — 3,974 ratings

"This is a drab two-toned conversational story between an armadillo and a turtle. One might say it's a gloomy book about a rock falling from the sky. But wait! Watch the changes in the animals' eyes! In the slightest way, the eyes bring tremendous humor to the story!

An early reader might feel confidence and success, reading this. Watch for surprise picture elements, as strange things appear in the little creatures' world. Gives the reader a chance to ponder yet another chapter to the book!

The colors have a drab, water paint look. This could be a wordless story – just follow the creatures' eyes! Unique? Yes! And thus could garner Caldecott medals"

4.12 avg rating — 320 ratings

"The book has daytime and nighttime scenes where a loved one lets a younger child know he / she will always be there for them no matter what. The book is written as poetry and takes the form of an adventure of first as a baby, I'll be there …and then as you get older, I'll still be there …till the concluding thoughts that I'll always be there in your dreams to support you. The illustrations are hand-drawn and colored in soft shades. Each section of the story fills an open-spread, so the illustrations feel life-size! The thoughts that a family member will always be there for one another even though they are far away is so positive! And as the title says, “I’ll meet you in your dreams.” "

4.17 avg rating — 374 ratings

"Eye opening biography that our youth can really begin to understand the movement to free Blacks in America. As a child, MaVynee had to swim on the other side of the rope. She grew to a life of success as an opera singer but family matters brought her back to the beach she so loved as a child. This story is so beautifully written. It is the perfect lead-in book to a study of Black Lives Matters at any grade, ages 9 - up to 109! I am so hopeful the book wins many awards so it will reach many readers.

The illustrations are colorful, acrylic and collage. The bright colors are filled with symbolism: Honor nature and protect our environment, bring your pastel dreams to life / reality, and see the world as a colorful happy place. Worthy of Caldecott award.
"

4.37 avg rating — 1,454 ratings

"This is a wonderful poetic story. Each double page spread tributes the work force that plays a major part in creating dreams and building these dreams. It takes a team of people to make a dream happen. Readers will ponder this and perhaps develop a better appreciation of our labor workforce.

This book is a great vocabulary builder for a theme on Careers and Our Labor Force. A few words to consider: architect, plane, engineer, ore, smelt, beam, weld, trench, solder, plumb, physics, ecology, amusements, mystified, gleam, cables, author, illustrator, press, reams, team and skilled.

Great read-aloud. Children will want to read it again and again. Each page offers so much detail. How fun to compare the first two pages with the last two pages. It’s like a Count the Changes Challenge!

The text and illustrations honor diversity, disabilities, and men and women – all featured as a major part of the teamwork to build a dream. This book is great for 3+."

4.09 avg rating — 444 ratings

"Dear Treefrog is two stories blended into one book: a story about children playing and looking for treefrogs, and it also is a wonderful science book about these creatures. Parts of the treefrogs surroundings are labeled as are other creatures that live together in the treefrogs environment. A nice page of information on the treefrog is included at the back of the book.

Dear Treefrog finds a little girl moving. She appears to be apprehensive. It is summer, and her day brightens when she discovers the delightful world of treefrogs. The book is a journey through the seasons. The little girl experiences numerous apprehensive times: starting a new school and making friends. It seems the treefrog helps the little girl settle in to her new surroundings.

The colors are cheerful and draw the reader into the story. This would make an easy-to-read wordless book. Any child that has ever found a frog will enjoy learning more by reading this book."

3.83 avg rating — 597 ratings

"yes & no - an outstanding look at the nature of dogs verses cats! Pretty sure, every owner of a cat and a dog will agree! The pictures are amazing. Such a lighthearted look at these two beloved pets! But, also, such a serious look.

If you are a cat and a dog owner, you will mostly likely totally agree. Cats have a mind of their own but they keep one eye open all the time for curiosity sake. The dog plays hard, loves to eat, and wants to keep playing until it simply gives out. Nope, not the cat. The closing page of this book rocks!

Great illustrations...filled with emotion! Wonderful book of humor!"

4.52 avg rating — 740 ratings

"A wonderful biography- brought tears to my eyes.

So worth the read and exploration of a wonderful person, artist, and sister.

The artwork is masterful.
"

3.81 avg rating — 623 ratings

"Wolfboy, written and illustrated by Andy Harkness, brings to life molded clay. Wolfboy and rabbits are the leading cast members. This an excellent readaloud! Children will love this book as much as 1964 Caldecott award winning “Where the Wild Things Are?” This could also be a 2022 Caldecott contender!

The words of the story emphatically describe how Wolfboy feels in the book. Kids will love hearing the words repeat, with more and more energy! But, when Wolfboy action words describe what he does as he gets most upset, things begin to change! Just as he gives up finding rabbits, they come along with a BIG surprise.

Harkness molds clay for this book. To get texture and shadows on the scenes, he incorporates lighting for interesting effects. Colors make the story: The yellow full moon highlights the world in yellow, EXCEPT for white teeth and cottontails. Blue wolfboy appears scary to the readers, but NOT to the rabbits!!!! The scenery is dark 'n scary!!!

Kids will laugh and be glued to the pages! When the book ends, kids most certainly will clap. It is that kind of a book. Andy Harkness is a great storyteller and art designer."

3.85 avg rating — 650 ratings

"Has a wonderful message for children. Take time to play alone. It is healthy.

Such a simple story of a child's life - such a powerful message.

Mother is shopping in the busy market; the little child wanders away from mom to a peaceful spot, surrounded by nature, rocks, forest, and ocean. He is alone but not lonely. At night, he ponders what a great day it was and wishes for more days like this.

This is historical fiction. The boy in the story is Isamu, who grew up to be a famous artist. All children need alone time to think, question, and be creative."

3.59 avg rating — 417 ratings

"Concept book telling the difference between what is and what was. Change is the big factor.

The illustrations are highly effective in show the difference between is and was events. The pictures are suspenseful, at times, as nature makes natural changes in what is and what was. "

3.90 avg rating — 280 ratings

"A look at immigration through the eyes of a child - the good and bad. Gives readers encouragement and a guide to success that are immigrating. Education is the key in this story.

The illustrator uses a paintbrush loaded with marbled paint, mingled paint, and a speckled look -- a palette of shades of blue, teal, lime green, earthy browns yellows and orange. Such a new global refreshing paint look for 2021!
"

3.82 avg rating — 1,119 ratings

"Brian Floca writes and illustrates an excellent documentary in poetic prose fashion, honoring the everyday heroes keeping a city operational during the Covid Pandemic of 2020. Though this is a look at New York City, the story resonates across the world the same. A detailed documentary (both in words and illustrations) such as this will be a great story to talk about, as we look back at a difficult year for all. "

4.50 avg rating — 640 ratings

"Everything you would want to know about how plants and flowers develop! Excellent science book for K - 6 program. The illustrations are bright, cheerful, and colorful! "

4.08 avg rating — 878 ratings

"The Lost Package is a tribute to letter writing, sending packages, and the Postal Service. The author, illustrator end notes are a valuable part to better understanding this story. The book also speaks of honesty and trying to help others (as in delivering the lost package). This is a story of serendipity...a package is lost and found. The finder just happens to be moving across country to the place that the package was to be sent. They deliver the lost package; that's surely a good deed! But, serendipity does happen!!!

The illustrations showcase two major cities, NY and San Francisco and the wide open country in-between, along I-80, as the family relocates across country. The pictures seem subtle but are vivid with rich colors and detail. The illustrations tell a beautiful story as well - seeing how packages are processed in the mail processing and delivery systems. Also, this is a beautiful pictorial story about making new friends and keeping the old. "

4.33 avg rating — 314 ratings

"The Highest Tribute is a magnificent picture biography on the life of Thurgood Marshall. Kekla Magoon tells the story of Thurgood's life and dedication to improving humanity in such a few pages! In the back of the book, there is a timeline of Thurgood's life and important summaries of his major court cases. The illustrations by Laura Freeman, likewise, are appealing. The illustrator has layered images of a great leader with a muted look at important documents devoted to freedom and human rights throughout history.

This is a perfect resource to begin a study of diversity and American history -- for grades 4 to age 104! "

4.02 avg rating — 444 ratings

"Passionate story - The author gives praise to helpers, workers and heroes, parents and grandparents, schools, friends and play throughout the story. Rainbows and rainbow colors, likewise, flow from page to page. The artist used colored pencils, yet the pictures look 3D-ish. I would like to try 3D glasses with this book! At first, the images left me a little dizzy. But, then the images grew on me!

The story and illustrations are certainly unique to a story that needs to be recorded."

3.87 avg rating — 1,749 ratings

"A sensory book told as an interaction between a girl and her dog. So often, we compare our lives to a tree but in this book, the author / illustrator compare our life to that of a flower.

He asks that we really look at a flower, but in doing so, the author ask that we look all around the flower, smell, taste, touch, and listen to it. The author is symbolically asking us to treat life this way and to really taste, smell, see, touch, and hear our journey along the way. A flower is so beautiful and life is, too.

The artwork for the book is done in vivid colored pencils - with an almost three-dimensional look. i feel the book exemplifies the old saying, "Bloom where you are planted! Credit: Bishop of Geneva, Saint Francis de Sales (1567-1622)
"

3.99 avg rating — 634 ratings

"Beautiful illustrations.
The cycle of life is the main theme in this book. The child is saddened in the beginning of the story without Charlie, his dog. But life goes on though after his pet has passed away. Life has its ups and downs. Brighter days are ahead as the story develops. This is a nice cycle of life story. Great book for a child experiencing a loss. "

3.85 avg rating — 229 ratings

"People of all types are portrayed in this story. Some belch loudly and others are bullies. But, when you really get to know them, they have interesting stories. Everyone does.

The author and illustrator show great examples of people doing and living. The important point in this story is that through listening and questioning, people can learn alot from each other. Wonderful connections are waiting around the corner. There are questions on the front and end pages that readers can use to ask others. A PERFECT book for EVERYONE of ALL AGES!
"

4.04 avg rating — 937 ratings

"The family has immigrated from India. Two children work hard in school - one excels and the younger struggles on so many levels. The parents work hard at two jobs each to make a living for their family. One weekend, the parents surprise the children with a camping trip to a nearby state park. The event is spectacular with so much to learn and share -- a true memory packed weekend! So much happiness and relaxation for the family!

The illustrations are vivid and bring the story alive! Readers will learn about the Indian culture. I wish an author's note and resources had accompanied the book. In my further research, I learned that the story parallels the author's young life as an immigrant. This would be a great book to use as a stepping stone into the life style, foods, and likes of the Indian culture.

A side note: Ambreen Tariq was compelled to create an online community called "Brown People Camping" on Instagram. Readers can find a reference to this in the illustrations on the last open-spread of the book.
"

3.70 avg rating — 851 ratings

"The neighborhood in this story is filled with kids. So is a classroom on a playground for that matter. How do encourage children to play fairly together, not bully, and solve their differences?

This is a delightful picture text book about our BIG feelings and how we can work and play together, living peacefully. Once read to, children will want to re-read this book on their own and explore the pictures! The concept about our big feelings is easy to understand and universal. As Springtime arrives, this is a fabulous book to share with children as they will be spending more time outside with other children. This is a helpful book to show children how to share and work together - and not push and shove!

The illustrations are bright, emotional, and full of color! It has a marvelous centerfold.

The author references our big feelings. What can we do to work and play together? I love the quote “ See another point of view.” I can hear children referencing this….so 21st Century style, as taught them by their parents, older siblings, teachers, and coaches! The story reads like poetry and has bigger than life illustrations! A sheer delightful book for children, libraries, schools, daycare, doctors’ offices, and more! "

3.92 avg rating — 155 ratings

"Great health unit book for young children. Encourages eating healthy foods, gardening, cooking, and making our world a better place. "

4.08 avg rating — 1,035 ratings

"Sunday feels undervalued and quit. The search is on by the other days to find a new day. Word bubbles gives nice flow to the story. Many different groups audition to take Sunday’s place. Sometimes, the action in the story got a bit heated in this search for a new day! In the story, poor cats are so undervalued. But, it’s comical!

Learn the days of the week in this story! Maybe be inspired to learn Sanskrit and sugar arts, or read about Elbridge Gerry! The concept thank you gets a big noteworthy praise at the conclusion.

This is a must read-aloud first and then children can read. However, this is probably a book that a K-2 will ask to be reread repeatedly. Nice moral – If we appreciate time and life a little bit more, then each day can be brand-new in which everything is possible. This is a super book! What less is expected of Brad Meltzer and Dan Santat working together?"

3.46 avg rating — 283 ratings

"This picture book counts down as distracted ducks leave their Mama and Papa’s line. Children can count the ducks still in line on each page, as the little ducks step aside. Colored pencils and felt tip pen Illustrations provide a great directional flow throughout the story. Scenery and trees change from page to page. Such a peaceful, happy story for children. Gives a message of acceptance and sharing as a wayward duckling appears in the story! "